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What We Do
Bathroom Renovation: Do's and Don'ts
Bathroom renovations, when executed with precision and care, can dramatically enhance the overall value of your home, making it a worthwhile investment. To achieve the best results and avoid costly mistakes, it's crucial to approach the project with a well-thought-out plan from the very beginning. By following a set of tried-and-true guidelines, you can transform your bathroom into a stunning and functional space that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.
Here are some indispensable do’s and don’ts to guide you through a successful bathroom remodel.
What's your bathroom's primary function?
Consider the main purpose of the bathroom you're updating. A master or shared bathroom serves different needs than a downstairs or basement bathroom. Ensure the design and function offer you the best benefits.
Upgrade your vanity
Vanities are great for extra storage and organizing grooming products. With Blake's hair products and Cali's needs, we definitely need the space. Choose from various vanity options: single sink, double sinks with cupboards and drawers, or wall-mounted styles—all designed to maximize your space.
Keep that bathtub!
You may love a good shower, but if you have more than one bathroom, keep at least one bathtub. Families with young kids often look for a tub, and it adds value when selling your home. If you're updating your bathtub, there are many styles to choose from.
Ensure adequate waterproofing
Waterproofing your bathroom is crucial. A good waterproofing system (not just drywall) keeps moisture out of your walls and floors. A musty smell might mean mold, which isn't toxic but can worsen allergies and asthma. We recommend Schluter systems to prevent mold and mildew damage.
Anticipate the unexpected
If you own an older home, it's wise to set aside some extra funds for unexpected issues. Problems like poor ventilation or hidden water damage might require additional work. To be safe, keep a 10-15% buffer in your budget. If you don't need it, you can save it or use it for another project.
Never tile over tile
Always take out the old tiles and check the underlay and subfloor. Ensure the floor is level! If not, use a self-leveling compound like Sika Level. A properly prepared underlay and level floor will prevent cracks, dips, and squeaks, making your bathroom floor last longer.
Porcelain is a great choice for bathroom tile. It's very durable and absorbs little moisture. Plus, there are endless design options—tiles can look like wood, marble, granite, and more. Porcelain tiles are excellent for both floors and walls. You can even choose porcelain slabs for a seamless, grout-free finish.
Never forget about proper ventilation
Many older homes lack proper ventilation, which can cause mold and mildew. Now is the time to fix this with effective ventilation. Installing a high-quality exhaust fan in your bathroom is essential. Many homeowners don't realize how much moisture builds up from hot showers. While an open window can help, an exhaust fan is a much better solution. Ensure the fan vents outside your home, not into the attic, to prevent moisture damage that can harm your home's structure.
Shine a light on it!
Using a bathroom with poor lighting is frustrating! Good lighting is essential for tasks like shaving, applying makeup, and handling minor injuries. It also sets the mood and comes in various styles. Recessed lighting is ideal for bathrooms, especially in showers—just ensure they're suitable for wet areas and high quality. A bathroom should have multiple light sources, such as an overhead light, wall sconces by the mirror, and a vanity light above, or a combination for the best lighting effect.